Former Biden Officials Navigate Gubernatorial Campaigns

Three Former Officials Balance Experience with Biden Connections

As the 2026 gubernatorial races approach, three former Biden administration officials are leveraging their experience to bolster their campaigns while cautiously managing their association with the former president, amid ongoing negative headlines. These candidates include Deb Haaland in New Mexico, Xavier Becerra in California, and Keisha Lance Bottoms in Georgia.

While they frequently highlight their administrative roles as credentials for leading their states, they rarely invoke Joe Biden directly in campaign events or promotional materials. This contrasts sharply with the strategy of Republican candidates, who have openly embraced Donald Trump and his achievements.

Biden’s Legacy and Current Democratic Strategies

Biden continues to grapple with challenging headlines since leaving office, accentuating his legacy for Democrats. Recent developments include the Democratic National Committee’s analysis of the 2024 election and comments from former first lady Jill Biden regarding her husband’s performance during the 2024 debate.

Xavier Becerra’s Campaign in California

Becerra, involved in a competitive primary in California, consistently references achievements during his tenure as Biden’s health secretary. His administrative accomplishments such as expanding Medicare and reducing drug prices are focal points. Despite this, Becerra avoids direct mentions of Biden in public speeches and advertisements.

Becerra’s rivals criticize his handling of significant challenges, including the Covid pandemic and migrant children issues. Though his critics highlight administration missteps, they seldom question his Biden association.

According to Becerra’s campaign, voters prioritize his individual achievements over his connections to Biden, focusing on his extensive political experience.

Deb Haaland’s Campaign in New Mexico

Haaland, favored to win New Mexico’s Democratic primary, speaks positively of Biden, noting his supportive role towards Indigenous communities and his apology for past policies affecting Native Americans. She emphasizes her achievements in environmental conservation.

While Haaland praises Biden publicly, her campaign emphasizes her candidacy’s historical significance and opposition to Trump rather than direct Biden endorsements.

Keisha Lance Bottoms’ Campaign in Georgia

Bottoms received Biden’s first post-presidential endorsement, which her campaign has actively promoted. Georgia voters appreciate the administration’s accomplishments, notably student loan forgiveness and business support.

Despite Biden’s endorsement, Bottoms opts not to feature her administration role in advertisements. Her potential opponents plan to use her Biden ties prominently in their campaigns.

Strategists note that all three candidates were established figures in their states before their Biden administration tenures. They suggest Democratic voters prioritize candidates’ opposition to Trump’s policies over any Biden associations.

As the election approaches, the impact of Biden’s legacy on swing voters remains uncertain. Democratic candidates focus more on fighting Trump than aligning with the former administration.